Eastern redcedar

Scientific name: Juniperus virginiana

Family: Cupressaceae (Cypress family)

The eastern redcedar is the most common evergreen conifer found in Ohio, though it predominates in southwestern counties where soils are more alkaline. Eastern redcedar is a pioneer invader, often found in pastured fields or woods. This native evergreen creates an excellent windbreak and serves as an erosion control shrub in nature. Its aromatic heartwood was historically used for making cedar chests, closet wood lining, small carvings, pencils, and fence posts.

Identification

LEAF: Immature foliage is needlelike and pointed; mature leaves are scale-like and untoothed. Immature needles are prickly to the touch when handled.

TWIGS AND BUDS: Twigs are green, angular, and abundantly branched in various directions.

FRUIT OR SEED: Female fruits are small, spherical, and irregularly shaped cones resembling berries. Mature cones are berry-like and bluish in color. Mature fruit serves as a food source for wildlife.

BARK: Thin, reddish-brown, fibrous, and shreds into long strips.

SHAPE: Dense pyramid.

MATURE HEIGHT: 30-50 feet.

Photo credits: ©Arthur Haines (Native Plant Trust), Alexey Zinovjev, William Culina, Ray Angelo (© 2024 Native Plant Trust), Arieh Tal (https://botphoto.info)